Being an “ally” is kind of cringe. Why?

Being an “ally” is kind of cringe. Why?

From Code Switch by NPR

March 28, 2026 · 29 min

About this episode

The episode explores the evolving concept of allyship through discussions with comedians Hari Kondabolu and Milly Tamarez.

People have been talking about being "allies" for a long time now. But what has that actually meant, over the years? And how performative should allyship be? One of our guests says, keep it to yourself. The other says, be loud and proud. So that's what we're getting into today with comedians Hari Kondabolu and Milly Tamarez — the many ways (good and bad) to be a so-called ally. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

People in this episode

Guests: Hari Kondabolu, Milly Tamarez

Topics covered

  • allyship
  • comedy
  • social justice
  • performative activism
  • cultural discourse

Keywords

  • performative allyship
  • social justice
  • comedians
  • cultural commentary
  • activism

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